Microeconomics

A.Y. 2025/2026
12
Max ECTS
80
Overall hours
SSD
SECS-P/01 SECS-P/02
Language
English
Learning objectives
The course aims to introduce a theoretical background of the analysis of individual decision making. Toward this goal the course illustrates the principles, methods, and concepts of microeconomics using both the normative approach that characterizes the neoclassical theory and the positive approach typical of behavioral economics.
The course focuses first on the consumer's decision, also using a behavioral approach, and then the profit maximization of firms. The course then analyzes the strategic interaction between agents, also analyzing the main market structures. Finally, the courses addresses cases of market failure that justify the public intervention.
The course provides provides preparatory knowledge useful for a wide range of future courses: Macroeconomics, Microeconomics of Uncertainty, Behavioral Economics, Public Economics, Consumer Behavior and Marketing Strategy, Labor Market and Migration. Moreover, it contributes to the basic theoretical knowledge required for the job profiles of market analyist and marketing technician.
Expected learning outcomes
At the end of the course, students will be familiar with the basic tools of analysis of individual choices in consumption and production, as well as with the functioning of well-known market forms. The knowledge acquired will enable them to apply the theoretical tools to the analysis of a wide range of instances involving individual decision making.
Single course

This course cannot be attended as a single course. Please check our list of single courses to find the ones available for enrolment.

Course syllabus and organization

Single session

Responsible
Lesson period
Second trimester
Course syllabus
The program initially covers consumer theory, starting from preferences to derive market demand through utility maximization. The rational choice model is then illustrated in other contexts (intertemporal choices, labor supply, COVID-related decisions) and applied to more complex decisions (uncertainty, strategic interaction). A critical discussion of its real or perceived limitations will lead to its extension to the case of altruistic preferences and a brief introduction to behavioral economics.

In the second part of the course, firms that maximize profit given technological constraints will be analyzed, with the aim of deriving market supply. Various market structures will then be presented: perfect competition, monopoly, and different types of oligopoly, concluding with an analysis of the input markets (labor and capital) and an overview of international trade.
Prerequisites for admission
There are no formal prerequisites, but familiarity with some concepts (systems of equations, derivatives) is required, hence passing the Mathematics exam is strongly recommended.
Teaching methods
Frontal lectures and tutorials.
Teaching Resources
Microeconomics and Behavior
By Robert Frank; McGraw-Hill
Assessment methods and Criteria
The final assessment is based on a written exam at the end of the course.
SECS-P/01 - ECONOMICS - University credits: 6
SECS-P/02 - ECONOMIC POLICY - University credits: 6
Lessons: 80 hours
Professor: Filippin Antonio
Professor(s)